hitsaus is the art of fusing two materials, frequently metals or plastics, by the method of melting a portion and adding a molten material which cools and solidifies after a short span of time. The energy sources applied can be different like electric arc, gas flame, laser, friction, ultrasound and a few others. Welding can be done in various environments like open air, outer space and even underwater. It is without a doubt, a dangerous task considering the various hazards involved like toxic fumes, electric shock, burns and overexposures.
So, necessary safety precautions like wearing a mask, goggles and helmets and solid leather gloves must be taken.
Some of the universally employed types of this process are shielded metal arc, gas, gas metal arc and gas tungsten arc welding. The shielded metal arc is the most frequently used among the above mentioned types. Electric current is employed as a source for this technique. Usage of laser and energy beams as a source has become popular in recent times due to minimum weld area.
Some of the universally employed types of this process are shielded metal arc, gas, gas metal arc and gas tungsten arc welding. The shielded metal arc is the most frequently used among the above mentioned types. Electric current is employed as a source for this technique. Usage of laser and energy beams as a source has become popular in recent times due to minimum weld area.
Hyperbaric welding is the most commonly used technique at areas of elevated pressures, like a hyperbaric chamber and especially underwater. It is a variation of shielded metal arc method. To minimize the risk of bumping into an electric shock, the apparatus used must be insulated and the process must be done in properly controlled environment to avoid mishaps. Spot welding is a method used for fusing overlying metal sheets up to 3mm thick. It has extensive usage in automotive industry. Advantages include high production rates, easy automation and efficient use of energy.
The quality of a weld cannot be assured because of the occasional incompatibility of the filler material and the base material. A fact worth remembering is that, not all materials are suitable for welding. Method to be employed must be carefully selected considering the environment in which the process is being done. Methods to be used in unconventional environments like outer space are also being researched into.
